KABUL, April 16 (Xinhua) -- A Taliban key commander, together with three of his subordinates, has been killed following an Afghan army cleanup operation in eastern province of Paktia, the country's Defense Ministry said on Monday.

"Afghan National Army (ANA) launched an operation in Zurmat district, Paktia province on Sunday, killing four insurgents, including Abdul Hakim, who served as commander of Taliban's Sara Ketta or Red Unit in the province," the ministry said in a statement.

The so-called Sara Ketta is the special forces of Taliban.

Five militants were also injured following the raid in the province.

The Taliban group, which has been waging an insurgency for more than 17 years, has yet to make comments.